Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica Family: Olive (Oleaceae) Height: 50-60' (15-18 m) Tree: single straight trunk with ascending branches and irregular crown Leaf: compound, 9-16" (22.5-40 cm) long, oppositely attached, made of 5-9 stalked leaflets, each leaflet 1-2" (2.5-5 cm) long, lacking teeth or with a very fine-toothed margin, on a very short leaflet stalk (petiolule), 1⁄8" (.3 cm) long Bark: brown with deep furrows and narrow interlacing ridges, often appearing diamond-shaped Fruit: green winged seed (samara), turning brown when mature, 1-2" (2.5-5 cm) in length, mostly round-ended, sometimes notched, in clusters, frequently remaining on tree into winter Fall Color: yellow Origin/Age: native, 75-100 years Habitat: wet soils, along streams, lowland forest, shade Range: throughout Stan's Notes: By far the most widespread of all Pennsylvania ash trees, found throughout the state. Also called Red Ash because it was once thought that the Green Ash and Red Ash trees were separate species. These are now considered one species. Not as water tolerant as the Black Ash (pg. 193), but able to survive with its roots under water for several weeks early in spring. Often has a large unattractive growth (insect gall) at the ends of small branches that persists on the tree throughout the year. The strong white-colored wood is used to make baseball bats, tennis racquets, skis and snowshoes. Excerpted from Trees of Pennsylvania Field Guide by Stan Tekiela All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.
